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The J.D. Program

Rutgers–Newark’s curriculum ensures the development of professional skills and values within a theoretical framework that promotes intellectual growth and a commitment to social justice. Full-time students complete the 84 credits required for graduation in three years and part-time students typically complete the program in four years.

The required curriculum gives students a solid foundation in the essential conceptual and analytical methods needed to be effective lawyers in complex professional environments. The small section program enables first-year students to work closely with faculty members and to bond quickly with their classmates. The Legal Analysis, Writing and Research Skills program features a team of seasoned instructors who provide detailed feedback on progressively more challenging assignments designed to prepare students for the practice of law.

Interdisciplinary studies that familiarize law students with social science vocabularies and non-legalistic methods of problem solving are encouraged. Students may enroll in courses given by other Rutgers graduate faculties or pursue a dual degree program with several academic disciplines within the university.

In the upper-level curriculum, students build on the foundational skills through our extensive elective offerings in traditional classroom, clinic, and seminar options. The wide variety of courses enables students to design a program tailored to their unique interests and learning styles. Students gain practical experience through one of our 10 clinics or through internships in a variety of public service settings. Those interested in international and comparative law can spend a semester abroad at Leiden University. More extensive exposure to current challenges in international law, intellectual property law, corporate governance issues, and education law and policy challenges is offered by our centers and institutes.

The faculty reviews the curriculum regularly to ensure that the offerings prepare students for a rapidly changing legal environment.